Spooky Excursions In Pittsburgh This Halloween Season – Travel Noire

The city of Pittsburgh is offering up a hefty dose of spooky Halloween fun this season. A historic American city, Pittsburgh sometimes flies below the radar as a destination for millennial and Gen-Z travelers. However, a new initiative is bringing all the shrieks and thrills to incoming travelers this fall. 

With the new Offbeat Pittsburgh pass, travelers can enjoy discounts and promotions from excursions, events, and metaphysical shops throughout the city. Designed with travelers in mind, this pass allows folks to access the haunted, hidden gems of the city now through November 20. If you’re headed to Pittsburgh, check out a few of these spooky things happening this Halloween season. 

Phantom Fall Fest In Kennywood

Pittsburgh
Photo credit: Charles Parker

Kennywood’s Phantom Fall Fest is a must-do when in Pittsburgh during the fall. The event takes place from September 22 to October 29. With over 30 rides and attractions, the festival is fun for visitors of all ages. 

During the day, the festival is made for family fun. There’s a trick-or-treat scavenger hunt and a Dogtober Parade for those traveling with pets. At night, the horrors come alive. There are plenty of haunted houses to explore, a worm-eating contest, scare zones, and more.

Speakeasy Vibes On Liberty

woman singing on mic
Photo credit: ANTONI SHKRABA production

Back in the day, iconic magician Harry Houdini set the streets of Pittsburgh ablaze. His illusions and mesmerizing disappearing acts all took place on Liberty Avenue. Today, travelers can experience the magic at the Liberty Magic speakeasy. The venue has performances every Wednesday through Sunday and the spirit of magic this Halloween is alive and well. Many of the magic shows are interactive and guests have an opportunity to join in on the action. Located at 811 Liberty, this speakeasy has the perfect ambiance for magical fall fun.

HALLOWBoo In Idlewild

person in Halloween costume
Photo credit: cottonbro studio

Idlewild Park is known for its water attractions and family fun. This fall, HALLOWBoo is bringing a bit of fright to the park. The event is perfect for traveling families with younger children. There’s a monster maze, a train ride through Sleepy Hollow, explorations in the Story Book forest, and an array of entertainment for young travelers. Even if you don’t have kids, HALLOWBoo is the perfect place to let your imagination run wild and tap in with your inner child while on vacation. The festival is taking over Idlewild every weekend through October 29. 

Asian Lantern Festival At The Zoo

Pittsburgh
Photo credit: Abby Kihano

The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is hosting a few events this Halloween season. In addition to the return of Zoo Boo, visitors can enjoy the magic of the new Asian Lantern Festival. The event celebrates the zoo’s 125th anniversary while guests explore the wildlife through the illuminated campus. The festival will have themed treats and activities for visitors to learn about Asian history and culture.